Abilene Visitor Guide

ESTABLISHED

1881

LOCALS ARE KNOWN AS

ABILENIANS

STORYBOOK CAPITAL OF AMERICA AS DESIGNATED

BY THE 84TH LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS IN 2015

POPULATION

129,043

40+

STORYBOOK SCULPTURES IN THE DOWNTOWN CULTURAL DISTRICT

HOME TO

DYESS AIR FORCE BASE

4,400 ACTIVE DUTY AIR

FORCE PERSONNEL

5,533 EMPLOYED

BY DYESS

HOME TO 3 UNIVERSITIES

HARDIN-SIMMONS • MCMURRY • ABILENE CHRISTIAN THE OFFICIAL ABILENE VISITORS GUIDE © 2025. All rights reserved.

Printed in the United States. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

Abilene represents the frontier spirit with its rich western heritage and authentic cultural experiences.

Its booming downtown, year-round family attractions, and storied history make for enriching experiences that create lifelong memories. Only Abilene uniquely combines West Texas charm and hospitality, with a thriving arts scene that boasts more storybook sculptures of its kind in the world, giving Abilene the distinction as the Storybook Capital of America®.

Created by the T&P Railway and established in 1881, Abilene embraced the spirit of the frontier to become the epicenter of activity in West Texas.

With three private universities, an Air Force base, and a major downtown revitalization underway, Abilene is a community that welcomes economic development and forward thinking.

Abilene’s Downtown Cultural District was one of the first five cultural districts in the state designated by the Texas Commission on the Arts. The walkable district is home to live music venues, museums, performing arts centers, a historic theater, shopping, dining and the largest collection of storybook sculptures in the world.

Abilene is a city that celebrates its heritage while embracing innovation and exploring new frontiers, and we invite you to be a part of it.

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table of contents FL AVOR

Get to Know Abilene

Coffee Craze

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7

EX PERIENCE

Endless Adventures & Attractions

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FL AVOR

EX PERIENCE

Escape to the Great Outdoors

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Taste-testing

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EX PERIENCE

FL AVOR

More Than Music

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Raise a Glass

FL AVOR

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Happy Hour Hangouts

EX PERIENCE

EX PERIENCE

Antiques & Vintage Treasures

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Circle the Date

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Accommodations

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Abilene is filled with delicious local restaurants, 20 outstanding activities, event centers, and some of the nation’s best colleges and universities. Pick the best side of town to stay or play in for your unique adventure through the Storybook Capital of America.

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North Abilene Hardin Simmons University 2200 Hickory Street, Abilene, 79601

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Fontier Texas!

Abilene Christian University The Grace Museum 1600 Campus Court, Abilene, 79601 Paramount Theatre West Abilene ZooAbilene Dyess Air Force Base Abilene Convention Center 1517 Arnold Boulevard, Taylor County Expo Dyess AFB, 79607 Dodge Jones Sports Center Central Abilene Dyess Air Force Base McMurry University ACU1400 Sayles Boulevard, Abilene, 79697 Hardin Simmons South Abilene McMurry Mall of Abilene Abilene Regional Airport 4310 Buffalo Gap Road, Abilene, 79606

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The Grace Frontier Museum Texas!

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Downtown Cultural District

SoDA District

H Paramount Theatre

834 South 3rd Street, Abilene, TX 79602

352 Cypress Street, Abilene, 79601

Abilene Convention Center

SoDA District Courtyard

1100 North 6th Street, Abilene, 79601

East District

The Grace Museum

Abilene Zoo

102 Cypress Street, Abilene, 79601

2070 Zoo Lane, Abilene, 79602

Frontier Texas!

Taylor County Expo

625 North 1st Street, Abilene, 79601

1700 TX-36, Abilene, 79602

12th Armored Division Memorial

Dodge Jones Youth Sports Center

1289 North 2nd Street, Abilene, TX 79601

NCCIL (National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature) 102 Cedar Street, Abilene, TX 79601

1042 Loop 322, Abilene, 79602

Abilene Regional Airport 2933 Airport Boulevard, Abilene, TX 79602

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GETTING TO

ABILENE

Fort Worth

MIDLAND DISTANCE TO ABILENE

2 hours

LUBBOCK 2.5 hours

FORT WORTH 2 hours

DALLAS 3 hours

WACO 3 hours

ABILENE REGIONAL AIRPORT (ABI)

AUSTIN 4 hours

SAN ANTONIO 4 hours

with service provided by American Airlines.

HOUSTON 5.5 hours

DID YOU KNOW? OF THE TEXAS POPULATION

lives within 250 miles of Abilene 6

ABILENE OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE

FL AVOR OF ABILENE

coffee craze

Explore Abilene’s Coffee Culture

Jumpstart your day with a cup of freshbrewed coffee from one of Abilene’s top java spots! Make it your mission to try them all or find the best one and become an honorary regular.

Statesman COffee Company Stop by Statesman Coffee Company and experience the unique blends carefully crafted from their very own roastery.

From creamy cappuccinos to robust espressos and everything in between, Statesman Coffee offers the gourmet quality every coffee lover deserves.

Monks Coffee Shop

Artfully crafted and full of character, Monks Coffee Shop serves your delicious dose of caffeine with unmatched friendly service. Monks focuses on enriching the concept of community and celebrating people coming together, and it shows with every espresso they pull or drip coffee they pour.

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FRONT PORCH COFFEE COMPANY & BAKERY MONKS COFFEE SHOP

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Front Porch Coffee Company & Bakery

Enjoy a cup of coffee on the front porch of your new home away from home, Front Porch Coffee Company & Bakery. With two locations in Abilene in the Downtown Cultural District and South 14th, this craft coffee spot is known as much for its brews as it is its homemade baked goods. Front Porch bakes its breads, biscuits, and pastries fresh from scratch every day.

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EX PERIENCE ABILENE

ENDLESS ADVENTURES & ATTRACTIONS Experience art, history, and fun for the whole family in Abilene

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et the itinerary ready, Abilene is filled with endless options for learning, exploring and family fun. You can take it easy poolside, dive into history, search the Storybook Capital of America for your favorite characters, or immerse yourself in life on the frontier like a real cowboy.

FRONTIER TEXAS!

Frontier Texas! is a western heritage center that uses state-of-the-art technology to transport visitors back to the Old West. Museumgoers can experience what life was like on the Texas frontier and interact with historical figures from that time period. Dig into the untamed life of early area pioneers in the Frontier Settlements exhibit, learn about the history of cattle trails in Cowboys and Longhorns, or get a feel for the heritage of the Comanche Empire.

Frontier Texas also serves as the official visitor center for Abilene and the Texas Forts Trail Region.

THE GRACE MUSEUM

The Grace Museum has curated a timeless collection of art celebrating Texas’ past and present for a seamless blend of yesterday and today. Imagine dressing up in styles from days gone by with the museum’s Garments & Fashion collection, or stroll through their Household Tools exhibit and show your kids the vintage wonder of the rotary phone and the dial television. The Grace Museum is a great place to see artwork by well-known artists with ties to Texas, such as Andy Warhol, Ansel Adams, and Charles Taylor Bowling. These artists and others are featured in the museum’s permanent collection.

THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR CHILDREN’S ILLUSTRATED LITERATURE

Looking for a fun and affordable activity for your family while in Abilene? Look no further than the National 10

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FRONTIER TEXAS!

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THE GRACE MUSEUM

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PARAMOUNT THEATRE

Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature. This unique museum showcases rotating collections of artwork and drawings by famous children’s authors.

Plus, on Saturdays, the Center offers free hands-on art projects for families. Admission is always free, so stop by and see what all the buzz is about. Happy exploring!

12TH ARMORED DIVISION MEMORIAL MUSEUM In just five short months, the 12th Armored Division became one of World War II’s most feared fighting machines. Dubbed the “Hellcat Division,” it played a crucial role in capturing 72,000 German soldiers and freeing several Nazi concentration camps.

Today, the 12th Armored Division Museum preserves this incredible history and offers exciting educational programs for kids and access to historical materials for scholars. Come on down and see why the 12th Armored Division was truly a force to be reckoned with!

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PARAMOUNT THEATRE

Treat the family to a vintage look at the silver screen at Abilene’s Historic Paramount Theatre on Cypress.

This beautiful Spanish-inspired movie house has been a landmark since it was built in 1930, and after a meticulous restoration, is now home to plays, concerts, ballet, and movies! Grab the popcorn and enjoy a show or embrace the retro ambiance while watching a classic from the Golden Age of cinema.

DYESS AIR FORCE BASE MEMORIAL CENTER MUSEUM & LINEAR PARK

If you want to combine action and history, spend an exciting and educational day at Dyess Air Force Base Memorial Center Museum & Linear Park. Located at Arnold Boulevard and Military Drive, this unique museum provides public insight into what it takes to train for a bomber crew in the Air Force. It also places a spotlight on military aircraft from modern times to WWII. Embark on a tour of the Linear Air Park and come away with up-close-and-personal memories of these exceptional machines and those who fly them.

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BUFFALO GAP HISTORIC VILLAGE

Take your journey through Texas history even further with a stop at the Buffalo Gap Historic Village.

Located in Buffalo Gap, about 30 minutes outside of Abilene, this historic outdoor museum features a collection of some incredible county landmarks, all accessible by a self-guided tour. Check out an authentic blacksmith shop, take a peek at the earliest Taylor County Courthouse, or explore an exhibit of photographs honoring the Texas of yesterday.

STORYBOOK SCULPTURES

Wonder waits around every corner in Abilene. The Storybook Sculptures of beloved children’s book characters are scattered throughout the Downtown Cultural District, welcoming visitors to seek out as many as they can find. Here are some tips: while Stuart Little rows a boat in the Adamson-Spalding Storybook Garden at the Abilene Convention Center, The Lorax can be found in Everman Park, and Dino Bob is parked at 133 Cedar Street.

STORYBOOK SCULPTURES

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ABILENE ZOO

The Abilene Zoo is an exciting and educational destination for families to make memories, discover new things, and learn about the importance of wildlife conservation. With 127 different species of birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles, there’s always something new to see at the Abilene Zoo. Come visit and be inspired by the incredible animals that call the zoo home.

ABILENE ZOO

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SPLASH PAD PRIMETIME FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

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ABILENE OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE

DIVE INTO ADVENTURE, SPARK CREATIVITY, AND PLAY YOUR WAY THROUGH ABILENE’S BEST ATTRACTIONS— PERFECT FOR FAMILIES, ART LOVERS, AND FUNSEEKERS OF ALL AGES! FREE PLAY ABILENE

Level up your fun at Free Play Abilene, where nostolgia meets non-stop action! Open to kids and adults, this retro-cool arcade packs in over 100 classic and modern games, including vintage pinball and joystick favorites. Fuel your gameplay with arcadeinspired bites and power-up potions from the full bar and kitchen. Press start on fun in Abilene!

PRIMETIME FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

Upgrade your family’s playtime at Primetime Family Entertainment. This multifaceted recreation spot truly has a little bit of everything, from mini golf to bowling to axe throwing and beyond! Relive the vintage video game feel in the arcade, race around the go-kart track, or dive headfirst into the future with a VR experience. Your little ones even have a soft play area set up so everyone can enjoy the fun.

ADVENTURE COVE & SPLASH PAD

Take on the Texas heat at Adventure Cove & Splash Pad. Explore the treasure brought to the city by way of Adventure Pete, a friendly pirate who packed his place with water slides, a lazy river, and a leisure pool. Get a tasty treat from the concession stand and soak up some sunshine while the little ones enjoy themselves!

CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ARTS

The Center is bustling with over 60 artist members with ten art studios for local SCAN creators. But it’s not just a place for FOR MORE the artists to create - the Center FAMILY FUN also boasts five galleries where IN ABILENE: it hosts admission-free exhibits of regional art, international photography, and award-winning short films, which are enjoyed by over 26,000 visitors every year.

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FL AVOR OF ABILENE

tastetesting Discover Abilene’s delicious hometown hotspots

Whether food is the driving force behind your love of travel, or restaurants are the last thing you think about as you fill your trip’s itinerary, these hometown hotspots are full of flavor.

Take a trip down memory lane and enjoy the classics at Abilene’s oldest operating restaurant, Dixie Pig. Cozy up to the diner or grab a table by the windows and treat yourself to your favorite breakfast with a side of nostalgia.

Start the day on a sweet note at Salty Roan Bakehouse. Choose from a mouthwatering selection of baked goods, quiches, and croissants to satisfy your cravings - and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite coffee-based beverage.

Eggs Benedict and pancake lovers, rejoice; you have found your new favorite breakfast spot! At The Flipping Egg, you can enjoy all the morning staples or venture out and try house specialties—like the Cinnamon Roll Pancake. Think you have what it takes to take down the 10 Pancake Challenge? There’s a spot on the Wall of Honor waiting for you.

You haven’t had a donut until you’ve had an AM Donuts & Croissant donut — fluffy, perfectly stretchy, and coated with delicious frosting. Pulling yourself away from the donut selection will prove tricky, but if you can muster the strength, their kolaches will have you running the numbers of what it would cost to make a trip once a week to Abilene to load up on a dozen.

The breakfast sandwich has been elevated to new heights at the Biscuit Bar. Breakfast, brunch, or lunch 18

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CYPRESS STREET STATION ABILENE BARBEQUE SCENE

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THE SHED MARKET

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are all good times to visit this Abilene favorite. Pro-tip: Sit on the patio or pull up to the bar and try a cereal-milk inspired adult beverage known as “Cereal Sips”.

The Shed Market is the quintessential Texas barbecue spot: pink butcher paper, tin trays, sweet tea, and all the fixings. Satisfy your smokedmeat cravings at this local BBQ joint. Choose from the legendary brisket, ribs, and sausage and pair it up with a savory side dish made fresh daily. Arrive early, as they sell until sell-out!

Experience Abilene’s heritage and visit Hickory Street Café in Old-Town Abilene. Get a taste of the Victoriancottage style architecture that was popular in the late nineteenth century, and enjoy the charming, intimate atmosphere - not to mention the delicious chicken salad, zucchini bread, homemade soups, and specialty quiche it is famous for.

Come on over to the legendary Cypress Street Station and dig into an unparalleled dining experience in Abilene’s Downtown Cultural District. The iconic restaurant has been pioneering the future of downtown dining for the best part of three decades, and you won’t find a better place to get together with friends and enjoy some award-winning Old West Texas hospitality and innovative New American cuisine, infusing comfort food flavors with a contemporary twist.

Craving a smoky West Texas feast? Swing by Smokehouse Abilene, nestled in the DoubleTree Abilene Downtown Convention Center Hotel! Open seven days a week, Smokehouse dishes out breakfast, lunch, and dinner with flair. Dig into the smothered burrito dripping with pork green chili, or savor advocado toast. Dinner? Think juicy brisket and top-notch local steaks-no hotel stay required!

Perini Ranch Steakhouse is at the top of every Texas bucket list dining experience. The James Beard awardwinning establishment prides itself on its signature “Real Texas Food”. What was once a hay barn, now hosts one of Texas’ premier steakhouses on the Perini Ranch in Buffalo Gap. Its exceptional quality, outstanding service, straightforward flavors, and an unparalleled setting has served celebrities, dignitaries, locals, and visitors since 1983.

If you’re in the mood for pizza, Vagabond Pizza in Downtown Abilene has got you covered. It’s serving up top-shelf woodfired pizzas and pairing them with an impressive craft beer and wine list, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.

The Beehive Saloon and Restaurant has earned a spot as one the best steakhouses in The Lone Star

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VAGABOND PIZZA

State. Texas Monthly declared it the “Best Country Steakhouse”, and Texas Highways magazine even gave it several nods. Known for its succulent charred cuts of prime beef and thirst-quenching Long Island Iced Tea, Beehive has been a West Texas staple for more than 30 years.

Family-owned and proud to serve Texas’ favorites for more than 15 years, Lytle Land & Cattle is the go-to spot for mesquite grilled steaks and Abilene’s largest selection of grilled seafood! Ask about its seasonal cocktails like the Pecan Praline or Watermelon Margarita.

Candies by Vleta’s has been committed to serving up delicious chocolate treats and delighting candy lovers since 1912! From the heavenly fudge to the delectable brittles and pralines, Vleta’s has a treat for every occasion and a flavor for every taste. Stop in and see what makes it the go-to spot for sweets in Abilene!

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ESCAPE TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS Unleash Your Inner Explorer: Outdoor Adventures in Abilene

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re you tired of being cooped up indoors, dealing with the daily grind? It’s time to break free and experience the wild beauty of Abilene!

From hiking and mountain biking to paddleboarding and fishing, there are endless ways to unplug and reconnect with nature. Pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and head out to Abilene. It’s time to get off the grid and experience the adventure of a lifetime.

ABILENE STATE PARK

Adventure awaits at Abilene State Park! Located just 16 miles outside the city limits, this peaceful oasis is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. Whether you’re looking to hike on a nature trail, have a picnic with the family, or cast a line in the fishing pond, you’ll find plenty to do at the park. And for the truly adventurous, why not spend the night in one of their cozy yurts?

With star parties and wildlife watching opportunities, Abilene State Park is the ultimate outdoor adventure.

ABILENE STATE PARK

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FORT PHANTOM HILL

Step back in time at Fort Phantom Hill! Located just outside of Abilene, this former U.S. Army post is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors with a historical twist. Take a selfguided tour through the guardhouse, marvel at the stone chimneys that remain as a testament to the past and enjoy the fresh air and tranquil scenery. It’s the perfect spot to take a stroll with the ones you love and snap some picturesque photos. Don’t miss your chance to experience the history and beauty of Fort Phantom Hill.

SUP ABILENE LAKE FORT PHANTOM KAYAK RENTALS

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s no better place to enjoy water activities than Lake Fort Phantom. With SUP Abilene Lake Fort Phantom Kayak Rentals, you can rent stand-up paddleboards or kayaks and hit the waves. Imagine yourself surfing on the gentle lake, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Or, grab some kayaks and enjoy some quality family time on the water. Don’t miss your chance to make a splash in Abilene!

BUCK CREEK TRAILS

Get your adrenaline pumping with a mountain bike ride on the Buck Creek Trails! Located in Abilene, these trails are designed for true enthusiasts, offering nearly 10 miles of peaceful, wooded paths to explore. Imagine yourself pedaling through the trees, feeling clear-headed and energized as you get a great workout in the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the Buck Creek Trails are the perfect place to experience the thrill of the ride.

CEDAR CREEK WATERWAY

Escape the hustle and bustle at Cedar Creek Waterway. This urban hike and bike trail is family-and-pet friendly and stretches two miles through the heart of the city, from East South 11th to East North 10th. Park at 11th, hit the path, and enjoy shaded seats and refreshing water stopsPerfect for hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiast.

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CEDAR CREEK WATERWAY

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FL AVOR OF ABILENE

Raise a Glass A tour through Abilene's local craft beer scene

Abilene's craft beer scene is hoppin'. With an amazing selection of suds to sip on, you'll want to set aside some time to enjoy a pint while you explore the best artisanal offerings in West Texas!

Grain Theory Immaculately designed from top to bottom, Grain Theory is serving up some amazing suds. With beers ranging from classic German and Belgian styles to popular hazy IPAs and stouts, Grain Theory is a mustvisit spot for any craft beer fan. They also offer wine, coffee, and a stellar food menu that has launched them to “local favorite” status.

The Big country beer garden Rasie your glass to The Big Country Beer Garden, Abilene's craft brew hot spot in the SoDA District. Locally owned and buzzing with vibe, this place is a paradise for craft beer lovers, boasting an ever-growing lineup that'll thrill any brew buff. Pair it with mouthwatering upscale bar bites like the legendary Nashville Chicken Sandwich or the juicy BCBG Smashburger. Hungry for more? Dig into a slew of tasty pub grub! The fun doesn't stop theresway to live music in the sprawling outdoor courtyard, where good vibes flow as freely as the beer. Come sip, savor, and soak in the Abilene spirit!

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Cr aft beer brewed on-site—fresh, bold flavors only at Gr ain Theory

GRAIN THEORY

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TAYLOR COUNTY TAPHOUSE

SODA DISTRICT

THE MILL

Taylor County Taphouse Step into the Taylor County Taphouse and be transported to a cozy tavern straight out of the Texas countryside. Locally owned and operated, this spot is a must-visit for beer lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike. With 20 hand-selected craft beers on tap, you're sure to find something that suits your taste buds. The menu offers up all the Texas comfort food favorites you could want, from pulled pork to shrimp and grits. And don't SCAN worry about leaving your furry HERE friend at home - the outdoor FOR patio is pet-friendly, so you MORE ABILENE can enjoy a cold beer with your BEER & best buddy by your side.

BREWS:

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MORE THAN

MUSIC Abilene’s love for song runs deep

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ew Texas cities have garnered more tuneful recognition than Abilene over the decades, and its relationship with music continues to inspire today’s troubadours.

It makes sense that Abilene is designated as an official Texas Music Friendly Community by the Office of the Governor.

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“Just what is it about Abilene that keeps attracting the attention of singers, songwriters, and listeners alike? Certainly, Abilene is an easy word to rhyme, but there is more to it than just ‘Abilene, Abilene, prettiest town I’ve ever seen.’ Its name summons up images of West Texas and of a city, located between Fort Worth and El Paso, which offers a place for escape, for romance, for fresh beginnings.”

Joe W. Specht, author, Abilene in Song

From buzzy brewhouses to must-see music fests, Abilene has a history of live music. Check out the event calendar to find the best show happening during your stay.

Abilene’s Outlaw & Legends Music Fest is a two-day event featuring the best in country music. The festival is hosted at the Back Porch of Texas and is a must-see for anyone who loves country music. For even more live music vibes, don’t miss ArtWalk, held quarterly on Saturdays, offering the perfect excuse for an evening stroll through Downtown, where local artists and musicians light up the streets with creativity and sound.. Another option for live music is the Ice House at LSDG, where you can catch an intimate performance and pick up some local, Texas-inspired clothing.

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KIRK HOUSE BAND

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FL AVOR OF ABILENE

happy hour

hangouts There’s never a bad time to have a drink, but there is an ideal time— during happy hour

Happy hour, an excuse to get the party started in the afternoon. It’s the perfect time to sip a beer and crush some bar snacks with your favorite people. Here are some of Abilene’s top watering holes to end the day or start your night early.

The Ice House at lsdg

This lil’ slice of Texas in downtown Abilene, with storefront windows so large, you’ll feel connected with the blossoming Cultural District scene. Come in for a pour of Texas whiskey, delicious cocktails, a great selection of beer, and bar bites like summer sausage and pork rinds, and be sure to check its event calendar for weekly live performances.

Peacock Patio Bar

Get ready for bold patterns, bright colors, and pops of modern luxury—this blend of tropical vibes and luxe living is hard to replicate. There’s a perfect background for your Insta-post or Tik Tok waiting around every corner, and an exciting cocktail menu to pair with whatever occasion brought you to this urban paradise.

Amendment 21

This cocktail bar is gracefully balanced between being a classic prohibition-inspired speakeasy, a creative mixology bar, and a whiskey lovers’ dream.

You can melt into a masterfully blended cocktail or get tossed around (in a good way) with a pour of your favorite barrel-proof Bourbon. The choice is yours…the Constitution says so.

Cattlemen’s Exchange Located in the DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown Abilene, Cattlemen’s Exchange serves up locally inspired craft cocktails, making it the perfect pre-party gathering 32

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CATTLEMEN’S EXCHANGE

place or post-day meet up. The upscale yet laid-back atmosphere pairs perfectly with it’s Texas-forward drink menu.

The Pour House

Upscale mixology has found its home in Abilene. The Pour House’s cocktail program blends all your triedand-true favorites with house drinks that lift the craft to new heights. The staff is dedicated to deliver more than high quality handcrafted cocktails, they want every guest to have a high quality experience, and it shows.

KAO Lounge

Abilene is filled with imaginative creators pushing the envelope of flavor, chief among them being KAO Lounge. Their mixologists are performing magic behind the bar. At this happy hour hotspot, you can roast a marshmallow atop your lit cocktail, taste ultraviolet, and watch your drinks sparkle. Sit back, relax, and prepare to be amazed by this Abilene hangout.

Guitars & Cadillacs

The band is playing, and everyone is dancing the night away at Guitars & Cadillacs! Ask any local and they’ll tell you this is the spot for dancing, making it a popular postconcert bar for anyone who doesn’t want the good times to end. With a billiards room almost as immense as its dance floor, you’re sure to enjoy your evening at Guitars.

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EX PERIENCE ABILENE

ANTIQUES &

VINTAGE TREASURES

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eady to hunt for hidden treasure? Abilene’s antique shops are the perfect place to start. From skillfully searching through shelves of forgotten gems, to uncovering relics of yesteryear, these shops offer an exciting and unique shopping experience.

ABILENE VINTAGE MARKETPLACE

The Vintage Marketplace is a treasure trove of unique, one-of-a-kind items. While the focus is on furniture, there are also plenty of smaller pieces to choose from.

The colorful booths are filled with a diverse range of vintage decor styles, making it a great place to find something to suit your taste. The selection is always changing, with new treasures appearing frequently, so it’s worth visiting regularly to see what’s new.

LA VILLA

At La Villa, shoppers can find a wide range of beautifully crafted global and local treasures. From colorful pottery to intricate ironwork, the store offers a carefully curated selection of artisan goods from Mexico, Indonesia, and beyond. In addition to these exotic items, La Villa also features a vast selection of local Texas treasures. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or something special for yourself, La Villa is the perfect place to shop.

VINTAGE MARKETPLACE

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ABILENE OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE

THE ANTIQUE STATION

Step into a treasure hunter’s dream at The Antique Station, crowned Abilene’s “Best Antique Store” by the locals! This hotspot in the heart of town is bursting with carefully picked antiques, rustic primitives, and groovy mid-century finds that’ll make any collector’s heart skip a beat. With a constantly fresh stash of artifacts and a crew that’s as friendly as they are savvy, you’re in for a wild ride through time. Swing by, snag a gem, and let the good vibes roll-your next favorite vintage score is calling!

POPPIES & PEARLS

Poppies & Pearls is a one-stop shop for all your boutique and antique needs. Located in historic downtown Abilene, this vintage shop has elegant displays of home décor and women’s fashion, blending classic charm and modern elegance. The store prides itself on offering unique items that are “truly Texas,” so you can be sure to find something special to take home with you. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or something special for yourself, Poppies & Pearls is a must-visit destination on your next shopping trip.

LONE STAR DRY GOODS

Lone Star Dry Goods isn’t an antique shop, but you’re sure to find hidden treasures at this manfriendly boutique. The store is dedicated to the rugged authenticity of American trailblazers, which takes the form of men’s apparel and accessories, tools, footwear, grooming kits, and more. Each item is 100% American-made and handcrafted from the highest quality materials available. It’s a new take on an old philosophy, resulting in a “truly unique Americana Vibe” that will be appreciated by anyone in your life.

LONESTAR DRY GOODS

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EX PERIENCE ABILENE

CIRCLE THE DATE

From legendary concerts to authentic ranch rodeos and family-focused art fests, Abilene boasts some of the top destination events in Texas.

March

OUTLAWS & LEGENDS May

WESTERN HERITAGE CLASSIC June

CHILDREN’S ART & LITERACY FESTIVAL September

WEST TEXAS FAIR & RODEO September

ABILENE BEER SUMMIT October

ABILENE ZOO-BOO AT THE ZOO December

WINTER LIGHTFEST December

CITY SIDEWALKS December

ABILENE ZOO CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION Plan your next getaway during one of these travel-worthy, annual celebrations. Visit our website for more information.

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ABILENE OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE

WEST TEXAS FAIR & RODEO

OUTLAWS & LEGENDS

WINTER LIGHTFEST

ABILENE BEER SUMMIT

CHILDREN’S ART & LITERACY FESTIVAL

WESTERN HERITAGE CLASSIC

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ACCOMMODATIONS HOTEL

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PHONE

ANTILLEY INN 6550 Highway 83

325-695-3330

BAYMONT BY WYNDHAM 3501 West Lake Road

325-676-1676

BEST BUDGET INN 3153 South 1st Street

325-673-4251

BEST WESTERN ABILENE INN & SUITES 350 West Overland Trail

325-672-5501

BIG COUNTRY HOTEL & SUITES 3010 Catclaw Drive

325-690-6400

CANDLEWOOD SUITES 3050 Catclaw Drive

325-437-4741

COMFORT INN & SUITES REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 6350 Directors Parkway

325-232-8801

COMFORT SUITES 3225 South Danville Drive

325-437-1525

COMFORT SUITES UNIVERSITY 1902 East Overland Trail

325-480-8486

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT NORTHEAST 2141 Scottish Road

325-673-0400

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT SOUTHWEST/ABILENE MALL SOUTH 4350 Ridgemont Drive

325-695-9600

DAYS INN 3950 Ridgemont Drive

325-480-7124

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 500 Cypress Street

325-999-1878

ECONO LODGE INN & SUITES 840 E Hwy 80

325-677-8100

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES 3902 Turner Plaza Drive

325-695-2448

FRONTIER INN AND SUITES 3210 Pine Street

325-677-2683

HAMPTON INN (SOUTH) 3917 Ridgemont Drive

325-695-0044

HAMPTON INN AND SUITES (NORTH) 3526 West Lake Road

325-673-4400

HILTON GARDEN INN 4449 Ridgemont Drive

325-690-6432

HOLIDAY INN ABILENE - NORTH COLLEGE AREA 3525 West Lake Road

325-673-1400

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES ABILENE (I-20) 1802 East Overland Trail

325-675-9800

ABILENE OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE

WEST TEXAS FAIR & RODEO

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ACCOMMODATIONS HOTEL

40

PHONE

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES ABILENE MALL SOUTH 3112 South Clack Street

325-695-0500

HOME2 SUITES BY HILTON 2109 Scottish Road

325-677-1100

HOME2 SUITES ABILENE SOUTHWEST 3650 Cedar Run Road

325-480-1800

LA QUINTA INN & SUITES (SOUTH) 3018 Catclaw Drive

325-238-4185

MCM ELEGANTE SUITES 4250 Ridgemont Drive

325-698-1234

MOTEL 6 - EAST 1702 East Overland Trail

325-672-6433

MOTEL 6 - WEST 4951 West Stamford Street

325-672-8462

QUALITY INN 1758 East I-20

325-480-8490

QUALITY SUITES 3165 South Danville

325-795-8500

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT 1641 East Musgrave Boulevard

325-677-8700

RODEWAY INN 5203 South 1st Street

325-704-3477

ROYAL INN 5695 South 1st Street

325-733-1000

SLEEP INN & SUITES UNIVERSITY 250 Killough Cove

325-437-9601

SUPER 8 NORTH 1525 East Stamford Street

325-307-1044

SUPER 8 SOUTH 4397 Sayles Boulevard

325-701-4779

TOWER MOTEL 3417 South 1st Street

325-672-7849

TOWNEPLACE SUITES BY MARRIOTT NORTHEAST 2141 Scottish Road

325-673-0400

TOWNEPLACE SUITES BY MARRIOTT SOUTHWEST 3838 John Knox Drive

325-999-9429

WESTERN MOTEL 3201 South 1st Street

325-672-7858

WHITTEN INN 3450 South Clack Street

325-695-7700

WOODSPRING SUITES ABILENE 4266 Oil Belt Lane

325-232-8710

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325-676-2556 ABILENEVISITORS.COM